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Washington, DC workers' compensation insurance: Your guide to requirements and getting a policy
If you’re a Washington, DC employer looking to protect both your business and your team, you’re in the right place. At Beyond, we provide the essential information you need to understand how workers’ compensation works and how to stay compliant.
Workers’ compensation insurance can be a lifeline for both businesses and employees in the event of a job-related injury or illness. For example, if an employee experiences a workplace accident or contracts an occupational illness and is unable to perform their duties, workers’ comp ensures they receive partial wage replacement and medical expense coverage.
For employers, this coverage provides peace of mind by helping protect the business from legal claims that could arise from such incidents.
Yes. Employers with one or more employees in the District of Columbia must maintain a workers’ compensation policy. If your business has employees outside of D.C., you must also provide coverage that meets the requirements of those respective states.
Some categories are excluded from coverage, including sole proprietors, casual workers, and unpaid volunteers.
In D.C., workers’ comp covers any injury or illness that results from an employee’s job duties, starting from the first day of employment.
Temporary Total Disability (TTD): Paid at 66 2/3% of the Average Weekly Wage (AWW).
Temporary Partial Disability (TPD): Also paid at 66 2/3% of AWW for partial work limitations.
Permanent Partial Disability (PPD): Based on the loss or loss of use of a body part.
Permanent Total Disability (PTD): For employees who cannot earn wages due to disability or loss of two major body parts (e.g., both hands or both eyes).
Disfigurement: Up to $7,500 for serious disfigurement to visible areas like the face, head, or neck.
Employers can obtain coverage from licensed private insurance carriers. If they are unable to find coverage in the open market, they may apply for coverage through the Assigned Risk Pool or the State Insurance Fund.
Employers must post the DCWC Form 1 Notice of Compliance at each worksite where employees can see it. This notice explains workers’ compensation coverage and employee rights.
If an employee is injured:
The employer must file the DCWC Form 8: Employer’s First Report of Injury or Occupational Disease with the Office of Workers’ Compensation within 10 days.
Copies must be provided to both the injured employee and your insurance carrier.
The employee must also receive the Employee’s Rights and Obligations document.
If the employer disputes the work-related nature of the injury, a DCWC Form 11 must be submitted within 14 days.
Employers are legally required to:
Cover all medical treatments and supplies.
Provide vocational rehabilitation if necessary.
Pay 66 2/3% of the AWW due to lost time at work.
Begin benefit payments within 14 business days of being notified of the injury or illness.
If an employer or their insurance provider unreasonably delays benefits in bad faith, the employee may be entitled to full wages and any unpaid compensation.
Maintaining workers’ compensation coverage is essential for compliance with D.C. law — but just as importantly, it supports a safe and secure workplace for your employees. Should something go wrong, both your team and your business are protected. If you have questions or need help, Beyond is here to support you.
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